Perhaps it is just the circles in which I tend to travel, but in my experience many folks tend to have the perception that Earth Day is a holiday founded and celebrated by hippies and/or people who value the lives of endangered insects over humans. In my experience, it is not necessarily a holiday that has enjoyed widespread popular support. Many folks seem to sense that Earth Day is a holiday only for those who eat vegan diets, operate their cars on recycled cooking oil, and have solar panels all over their homes.
I think that perception is unfortunate. In my opinion, even less dedicated environmentalists should observe the holiday. Indeed, particularly for Christ followers, I think it is valuable to make time to consciously reflect on God’s glory in creating the earth. This is truly an amazing planet that he gave us. The biodiversity alone blows the mind. From the visual beauty of wildflowers, mountain peaks and waves crashing along the coast, to the fragrant perfume of orange blossoms and pine trees, to the affectionate companionship of our pets--truly we are blessed with an abundance of riches.
It is also a good thing for us humans to take time to reflect on our responsibilities as stewards of these treasures, and to reevaluate our efforts to-date in that area. Just like many Christ followers take time out periodically (e.g., perhaps annually) to reflect on, readjust and perhaps renew their efforts towards good financial stewardship, we ought to do the same with respect to our stewardship of the natural treasures our God has given us.
I think that perception is unfortunate. In my opinion, even less dedicated environmentalists should observe the holiday. Indeed, particularly for Christ followers, I think it is valuable to make time to consciously reflect on God’s glory in creating the earth. This is truly an amazing planet that he gave us. The biodiversity alone blows the mind. From the visual beauty of wildflowers, mountain peaks and waves crashing along the coast, to the fragrant perfume of orange blossoms and pine trees, to the affectionate companionship of our pets--truly we are blessed with an abundance of riches.
It is also a good thing for us humans to take time to reflect on our responsibilities as stewards of these treasures, and to reevaluate our efforts to-date in that area. Just like many Christ followers take time out periodically (e.g., perhaps annually) to reflect on, readjust and perhaps renew their efforts towards good financial stewardship, we ought to do the same with respect to our stewardship of the natural treasures our God has given us.
Genesis 1:31 (New International Version)
God saw all that he had made, and it was very good.
Matthew 6:26 (New International Version)
Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
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